The McGowan Government will partner with Gascoyne Catchments Group, investing $500,000 for a Gascoyne River Catchment Rehydration and Climate Resilience project to protect the productivity and profitability of the region's agribusinesses.
The project will implement a range of strategies to slow water movement within the Gascoyne River catchment to decrease the risk of flooding and subsequent soil erosion.
The funding will empower pastoral stations to continue land care plans, enabling pastoralists to rehydrate the land and restore the landscape by improving vegetation coverage and soil health.
Slowing water movement will reduce the impacts of significant rainfall events and river flows on downstream horticulture and fisheries industries.
Pastoralists will create a road map to engage with Traditional Owners to incorporate traditional land management practices and protect important cultural heritage values associated with the Gascoyne catchment.
The project will include a rehydration survey of the Gascoyne River catchment, the development of ecologically sustainable Rangeland management plans, and site rehydration and rehabilitation works.
Ongoing monitoring and evaluation will help maintain and improve soil health, carbon sequestration and biodiversity of the river catchment into the future.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"In supporting such a progressive project, we are rehabilitating the fragile Rangeland soil and vegetation, improving overall Rangeland condition and ecosystem resilience.
"Pastoralists in the Gascoyne have been exposed to the impacts of climate change, this foundation work will ensure pastoralists can continue sustainable land care plans and realise the productive potential of the Rangelands.
"It's great to see land managers working with each other and Traditional Owners to increase knowledge and share capabilities."
